By Toni Garrard Clay
Little Jeorge Luis Fernandez may not have been born on New Year’s Day, but he still managed to achieve first-baby-of-the-year status at ETMC Athens with a January 2 arrival. The beautiful boy was born at 9:32 a.m. at 7 pounds, 2.75 ounces and 19.5 inches long.
The little boy’s mother was also hoping for a Jan. 1 arrival for her son because, among other reasons, she thought it would be fun to share a birthday with him. Esmeralda Juarez turned 25 on the first.
Jeorge Luis was a planned c-section delivery, and Ms. Juarez had asked if it would be possible to schedule the delivery on New Year’s Day. But planned surgical procedures aren’t scheduled on holidays.
It was a surprise then when her baby boy – boasting a gorgeous, silky explosion of dark hair – still ended up being the first born at ETMC Athens in 2009. It was also a blessing, because along with the first delivery comes a basket full of goodies for Mom and baby, courtesy of the hospital.
“Thank you very much. I needed these things,” said Ms. Juarez through an interpreter. “It’s a blessing.”
Ms. Juarez lives in Athens with Jeorge Luis’ father and her firstborn son, 3-year-old Jeffry. She said she is content and her baby’s arrival indicates, “it’s going to be a better year.”
Among the items contained in the gift basket from ETMC Athens are:
- bottles and nipples;
- pacifiers;
- diapers and wipes;
- a musical toy;
- blankets;
- onesies and socks;
- lotion and bath items;
- various baby-care items;
- a car mirror;
- chocolates and bath & body items for Mom;
- a photo album; and
- a gift certificate to the Olive Garden restaurant.
Originally posted January 5 2009